Wireless Building Control Architecture

ABSTRACT

On a first level of the wireless building automation architecture, sensors and associated actuators communicate directly. The sensor performs control processes appropriate for the sensor and regardless of the type of actuator being used. The actuator performs control processes specific to the actuator regardless of the type of sensor being used. By direct wireless communication between sensors and actuators, the opportunity for a failed communications link using a hub and spoke arrangement may be avoided. Communication redundancy is provided by receiving the outputs of sensors at a controller, such as a controller on a second high speed or high bandwidth tier of the architecture. Regional control is implemented in the higher level tier. The higher level tier may override or control operation of components of the lower level tier as needed. The distributed control processing allows for more convenient room level integration. Where a problem is detected, such as a fire, corrective action begins within the immediate region of the sensor generating an alarm signal. The corrective action occurs without routing the alarm signal to upper levels of control processes or across different systems. The alarm signal is also propagated to upper level control systems for generating appropriate responses in other zones. To provide the different zones and avoid interference, the transmit power of the sensors and actuators is controlled as a function of two or more other devices.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to building automation systems. Inparticular, a wireless building control architecture implementsautomation of building systems.

Building automation systems include heating, ventilation and airconditioning (HVAC) systems, security systems, fire systems, or othersystems. The systems are typically formed from distributed componentswired together. HVAC systems may be formed with up to three separatetiers or architectural levels. A floor level network provides generalcontrol for a particular floor or zone of a building. Controllers of thefloor level network provide process controls based on sensor inputs tooperate actuators. For example, a temperature sensor is read. Anadjustment of a damper, heating element, cooling element or otheractuator is determined by a separate controller based on a set point andthe measured temperature. Other basic control functions for room comfortmay be provided, such as by using single input, single output feedbackloops employing proportional-integral-derivative methods. The buildinglevel network integrates multiple floor level networks to provideconsistent control between various zones within a building. Panels orother controllers control distribution systems, such as pumps, fans orother central plants for cooling and heating. Building level controllersmay communicate among themselves and also access floor level controllersfor obtaining data. The management level network integrates control ofthe building level networks to provide a high level control process ofthe overall building environment and equipment. The controllers, such asa personal computer, provide supervisory and management of the buildingautomation system. Single or dual level architectures may also beprovided.

Wired building automation systems have substantial installation costs.Controllers on a floor level network are bound through installed wiringbetween sensors and actuators. In addition to the cost of installingwiring between the various devices, the maintenance and establishment ofa network hierarchy also introduces additional cost. Further wiringconnects floor level controllers to building level controllers andbuilding level controllers to management level controllers. Furtherwiring adds additional costs and complication for networking. If adevice within the system fails, the physical location of the device isdetermined manually, such as by following wiring runs from a controllerreporting failure to a failed component. Manual maintenance may beexpensive. Changes to the system may require additional wiring orrerouting of wiring, adding further costs.

To reduce costs associated with wiring, wireless architectures forbuilding automation systems have been proposed. Wireless standardsprovide single tier networks or multiple tier networks for implementinga single building automation process. For example, a multi-tier wirelessnetwork emulates current wired building automation systems. A controllerwirelessly communicates with sensors and associated actuators. The lowerlevel sensors and actuators provide mere input and output functionscontrolled by controllers. As another example, a hub and spoke controlin proposed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/672,527 titled“Building Control System using Integrated MEMS Devices”, the disclosureof which is incorporated herein. A controller may be integrated with anactuator, a sensor or combinations thereof. An additional layer or tieruses wireless communications for management of local functions as wellas management of building wide subsystems, such as chiller or buildingfan.

IEEE 802.15.4 standardizes wireless integrated building automationsystems. Reduced function devices (RFD) with limited processing powercommunicate with full function devices. Full function devices (FFD)provide pier-to-pier wireless communication for controlling otherreduced function devices. The standard contemplates a hub and spokeconfiguration between an RFD and associated FEDs while usingpeer-to-peer communication between FFDs.

BRIEF SUMMARY

By way of introduction, the preferred embodiments described belowinclude methods and systems for wireless building automation control.The wireless architecture maximizes control capabilities and optional oravailable communications paths. On a first level of the wirelessarchitecture, sensors and associated actuators communicate directly. Thesensor performs control processes appropriate for the sensor andregardless of the type of actuator being used, and the output from thesensor is wirelessly communicated to an actuator. The actuator performscontrol processes specific to the actuator regardless of the type ofsensor being used. By direct communication between sensors andactuators, the opportunity for a failed communications link using a huband spoke arrangement may be avoided. Communication redundancy may beprovided by also receiving the outputs of sensors at a controller, suchas a controller on a second high speed or high bandwidth tier of thearchitecture. Regional control is implemented in the higher level tier.The higher level tier may override or control operation of components ofthe lower level tier as needed, such as during a communications failureor to implement a control process accounting for a larger region ofoperation than individual communication between sensors and actuators onthe lower level tier.

The distributed control processing allows for more convenient room levelintegration. Where a problem is detected, such as a fire, correctiveaction begins within the immediate region of the sensor generating analarm signal. The corrective action occurs without routing the alarmsignal to upper levels of control processes or across different systems.The alarm signal is also propagated outward through the network to upperlevel control systems for generating appropriate responses in otherzones.

To provide the different zones and avoid interference, the transmitpower of the sensors and actuators is controlled as a function of two ormore other devices. For example, a signal strength is set to providereception of the signals at more than one device for communicationredundancy, but to limit reception by more distant devices to avoidinterference with communications for that distant device.

In a first aspect, a control system is provided for wireless buildingautomation control. A first wireless network in a building has a firstwireless communications protocol. A second wireless network in thebuilding has a second wireless communications protocol different thanthe first wireless communications protocol. The first wireless networkis operable in control, free of communications with the second wirelessnetwork building components in response to sensors. The first network isalso operable to control the building components in response to datafrom the second wireless network.

In a second aspect, a method is provided for wireless buildingautomation control. Building actuator outputs are wirelessly controlledin response to sensor inputs without an intervening controller. Thewireless communications for control of outputs are performed pursuant toa first communications protocol. The building actuator outputs may alsobe wirelessly controlled with an intervening controller in response tosensor inputs. The building actuator outputs operate free of theintervening controller in one time period and operate in response in theintervening controller in a different time period.

In a third aspect, a control system is provided for wireless buildingautomation control. A sensor arrangement includes a sensor, a sensorprocessor and a radio frequency transmitter. An actuator arrangementincludes an actuator, an actuator processor and a radio frequencyreceiver. The sensor arrangement is spaced from the actuator arrangementsuch that the radio frequency receiver is operable to receiveinformation from the radio frequency transmitter. A control algorithm isdistributed on both the sensor processor and the actuator processor. Theportion of the control algorithm on the sensor processor is specific tothe sensor and the portion of the control algorithm on the actuatorprocessor is specific to the actuator. The sensor processor is free ofcontrol algorithms for other devices. The control algorithm is operableto control, free of input from an external controller, a parameter as afunction of the sensor and the actuator.

In a fourth aspect, a method is provided for wireless buildingautomation control. A sensor control process is performed on a sensor.The sensor control process is specific to the sensor without controlprocesses for other sensors or other actuators. An output is wirelesslytransmitted from the sensor responsive to the sensor control process.The output is received at an actuator.

The actuator performs a control process as a function of the output. Theactuator control process is specific to the actuator without controlprocesses for other sensors or other actuators. The sensor and actuatorcontrol processes are operable without control from any externalcontroller.

In a fifth aspect, a system is provided for wireless building automationcontrol. A first building control system device has a transmitter.Second and third building control systems devices have receivers. Acontrol processor is operable to set a transmit power of the transmitteras a function of information from both the second and third receivers.

In a sixth aspect, a method is provided for wireless building automationcontrol. A radio frequency signal is transmitted from a building controlsystem device. Additional building system control devices attemptreceipt of the radio frequency signal. A transmit power of thetransmitter is set as a function of information from the other devices.

In a seventh aspect, a method is provided for wireless buildingautomation control. An alarm signal is wirelessly transmitted from asensor within a room of the building. The alarm signal is directlyreceived from the sensor at an actuator associated with the room. Theactuator operates in response to the alarm signal. The alarm signal iswirelessly propagated outside the room and within the building. Thealarm signal is responded to differently in another room.

In an eighth aspect, a device is provided for wireless buildingautomation control. A first transceiver connects with a processor. Thefirst transceiver is operable for wireless communication with buildingcontrol sensors, building control actuators or combinations thereof. Asecond transceiver connects with the processor. The second transceiveris operable for wireless communication different than the wirelesscommunication of the first transceiver.

The present invention is defined by the following claims, and nothing inthis section should be taken as a limitation on those claims. Furtheraspects and advantages of the invention are discussed below conjunctionwith the preferred embodiments and may later be claimed independently orin combination.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasisinstead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention.Moreover, in the figures, like reference numerals designatecorresponding parts throughout the different views.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a multi-tier wirelessbuilding automation control system architecture;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a sensor arrangement;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of one embodiment of an actuator arrangement;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a controller;

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of one embodiment of distribution ofcomponents of the wireless network of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a flow chart diagram of one embodiment of a method for controlin a wireless building automation system; and

FIG. 7 is a flow chart diagram of one embodiment of a method for settinga transmit power in a wireless architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS AND PRESENTLY Preferred Embodiments

Wireless building automation control is provided for safety,environmental, security, hazard, combinations thereof or other buildingsystems. The control processes for automation are distributed. Forexample, control processes are distributed between two tiers or levelsof the architecture. Associations between the controllers, sensors andactuators may be modified and updated with changing needs of the system.A further distributed control is provided by allowing for direct orpeer-to-peer communication between devices on a lowest level, such assensors and actuators.

Using a two-tier architecture, one level provides for high speed, orhigh bandwidth communications of aggregate collections of sensors oractuator data, video or other high bandwidth data or long rangecommunications. A lower level associated with point-to-pointcommunications may have a lower bandwidth for communicating betweenspecific sensors and actuators. Control processes are distributed to thecontrollers, sensors and actuators as appropriate for the particularoperations of each device, such as using an object oriented controldistribution. The sensor reports information appropriate or specific tothe sensor, such as reporting the result of a comparison of a measuredvalue to a desired or set point value. Actuators use the output sensordata to provide a response appropriate for the actuator. Controllersmonitor the process or action of sensors and actuators without controlin one mode of operation. In another mode of operation, the controllersoverride the sensor and/or actuators to alter processing based on aregional or larger area control process.

FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of a control system 10 for wireless buildingautomation control. The control system 10 includes two differentwireless networks 12, 14 for use in a building. One of the wirelessnetworks 12 is a high level control network, and the other wirelessnetwork 14 is a lower level operations network. Interfaces, routers andbridges are provided for implementing wireless network 12, 14. Whileshown as a common bus or interconnection structure, each of the networks12, 14 may be associated with a plurality of different links betweencomponents with some or no redundancy in any of various patterns.Additional, different or fewer wireless networks may be provided. Forexample, one network is wired and another network is wireless, one orboth wireless networks include wired components, or the networks may bedistributed amongst only one, three or more levels.

Each network operates pursuant to different wireless communicationsprotocols. For example, the lower level network 14 operates pursuant tothe 802.15.4 communications protocols, but Bluetooth, proprietary,standard, now known or later developed wireless communication protocolsmay be used. The high level network 14 operates pursuant to the 802.11xprotocol (e.g., 802.11a 802.11b, 802.11c . . . 802.11g), but wifi,computer network, Ethernet, proprietary, standard, now known or laterdeveloped protocols may be used. 802.15.4 and 802.11x provide mediumaccess control and a physical interface to wireless medium. Any nowknown or later developed network and transport algorithms may be used.Communication, transport and routing algorithms are provided on theappropriate devices. Any packet size or data format may be used. Thebandwidth for any given communications of the lower level network 14 isless than for the higher level network 12. For example, the protocol ofthe lower level network 14 is adapted for small data packets transmittedover short distances as compared to the higher level network adapted forlarger data packets at higher rates and for longer distances. Inalternative embodiments, the same communications protocol is used forboth the higher level and lower level networks 12, 14.

Differences in transmit power, packet structure, bandwidth, baud rates,routing, interference avoidance, data format, distances of transmissionand reception, or other network characteristics may distinguish the highlevel network protocol from a lower network protocol. For example, thehigh and low level wireless networks 12, 14 operate pursuant to a sameor different collision avoidance. Any of time division multiplexing,frequency division multiplexing, spread spectrum, code divisionmultiplexing, dynamic collision avoidance or other now known or laterdeveloped wireless interference schemes may be used. In one embodiment,the high level wireless network 12 uses CDMA interference avoidance. Thelow level wireless network 14 uses collision avoidance by transmittingwhen a channel is clear with or without frequency modulation. Routing isperformed within either or both of the networks 12, 14 using anyprotocol, such as a MESH routing, token, or a protocol provided by DustNetworks. For example, time division multiplexing is used to assigninfrequent contact times between bound components and allow for sleepingor reduced function of components at other times for saving batterylife.

Different frequencies, codes or other communications differences may beused for different groups of components, such as by floor, by type(e.g., HVAC versus security or temperature versus air flow) or by otherzones. By dividing up portions of the network, the communicationsprocessing load on the network may be minimized. Communications betweenthe different nodes on the network may then be performed by adjusting atransmit and/or receive function for communication with the node ofinterest. By providing differences in communications for differentzones, different customers in the same building may be isolated usingthe same wireless network. Different types of systems may be isolatedfrom each other as well. Alternatively, the systems or customers areintegrated and operate together.

The low level wireless network 14 includes a plurality of buildingcontrol system devices or processors 16, 18, 20. For example, sensorarrangements 16 communicate with actuator arrangements 20 pursuant to acommunications protocol for the low level wireless network 14. Paired orlarger groupings of actuator arrangements 20 and sensor arrangements 16are operable together using point-to-point or peer communicationswithout further control by other controllers. Other processors orbuilding devices 18 operating on the lower level network 14 includepersonal computers, panels, monitors, or other devices. For example, thedevice 18 is an actuator for controlling a building wide component, suchas a chiller, boiler, building intake vent, or building air flow outtake vent. A paired or grouped sensor arrangement 16 and actuatorarrangements 20 are dynamically, automatically or manually associatedwith each other. For example, a sensor arrangement 16 within a room isbound to a actuator arrangement 20 associated with the room, such as fortemperature sensing within the room to control a damper and/or heatingor cooling elements associated with air flowing into the room. The lowlevel network 14 controls major or building wide equipment, individualspaces or local input and output points.

In one embodiment, sensor arrangements 16, other devices 18 and/or theactuator arrangements 20 operate as full function devices of 802.15.4allowing for dynamically assigned communications with different devicesover a single or multiple communications path but without the ability toroute routing communications from other devices. Reduced functionalitydevices of 802.15.14 are provided with the increased capability ofdirect communication with each other and the ability to address otherdevices for routing to the other device. For example, a temperaturesensor arrangement 16 is provided with a plurality of network addresslocations to receive temperature information. The temperature sensorarrangement 16 communicates directly with an actuator arrangement 20 forimplementing local control processes. Transmissions addressed to otherdevices, such as one or more of the controllers 22 are also transmitted.The receiving controller 22 then routes the signals to the desired oraddressed controller 22. The assigned addresses may be dynamicallyprogrammed by one or more controllers 22 or are established duringinstallation or manufacturing. By avoiding routing functions, lessmemory, less processing, less power and cheaper cost sensor arrangement16 may be provided.

FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of a sensor arrangement 16. The sensorarrangement 16 includes a sensor 30, a sensor processor 32 and atransmitter 34. Additional, different or fewer components may beprovided, such as providing a plurality of different or the same typesof sensors. The components of the sensor arrangement 16 are connectedtogether on a same circuit board, in a same housing, connected with asame power source or otherwise arranged for operation together. In oneembodiment, the sensor 30 is spaced from the processor 32, such asconnecting through a length of wire.

The sensor 30 is a temperature sensor, humidity sensor, fire sensor,smoke sensor, occupancy sensor, air quality sensor, gas sensor, CO₂ orCO sensor or other now known or later developed sensors, such as anoxygen sensor for use in hospitals. Micro-electro-mechanical sensors orlarger sensors for sensing any environmental condition may be used. Inone embodiment, the sensor 30 includes a suit of sensors for sensingmultiple environmental conditions.

The processor 32 is a general processor, digital signal processor,control processor, application specific integrated circuit, fieldprogrammable gate array, analog circuit, digital circuit, combinationsthereof or other now known or later developed device for implementing acontrol process on a signal measured by the sensor 30. The processor 32has a processing power or capability and associated memory correspondingto the specific sensor 30 or corresponding to the needs of one of aplurality of different types of sensors 30 with a maximum desiredprocessing power, such as an 8 or 16 bit processor. By minimizing theprocessor requirements and associated memory, the cost of the sensorarrangement 16 may be reduced. The processor 32 implements a controlprocess algorithm specific to the sensor arrangement 16. Other controlprocesses are either not stored on the sensor arrangement 16 or arestored but unused due to a specific configuration.

The transmitter 34 is a radio frequency transmitter. In one embodiment,the transmitter 34 is part of a transceiver such that controlinformation from other components may be received by the sensorarrangement 16 to alter the implemented control process or thetransmission of data. The transmitter 34 is responsive to the processor32 or other logic for increasing or decreasing transmitted power.Alternatively, a set transmit power is used. The transmitter 34 isresponsive to the processor 32 or other logic for changing a frequency,data format, interference avoidance technique or other transmission orreception property either automatically or in response to controlsignals.

FIG. 3 shows one embodiment of an actuator arrangement 20. The actuatorarrangement 20 includes a receiver 36, an actuator processor 38 and anactuator 40. Additional, different or fewer components may be provided,such as additional actuators 40 within the actuator arrangement 20. Thecomponents of the actuator arrangement 20 are positioned on the samecircuit board, within a same housing, adjacent to each other, or spacedfrom each other. For example, the actuator 40 is a mechanical orelectromechanical device attached in a separate housing to the processor38 and the receiver 36. As shown in FIG. 5, the actuator arrangement 20is spaced from sensor arrangement 16 such that the radio frequencyreceiver 36 of the actuator arrangement 20 is operable to receiveinformation from the radio frequency transmitter 34 of the sensorarrangement 16. The actuator arrangement 16 is placed within a room orassociated with a room. For example, the actuator arrangement 20 ispositioned above a ceiling of a room or in a hallway near the room forcontrolling a damper, heating element, cooling element, sprinkler, alarmor other device.

The receiver 36 is a radio frequency receiver. In one embodiment, thereceiver 36 is a transceiver for transmitting acknowledgments or otherdata. The receiver 36 is operable to receive information at differentfrequencies, different formats, or other transmitting characteristics.

The actuator processor 38 is a general processor, digital signalprocessor, application specific integrated circuit, field programmablegate array, analog circuit, digital circuit, combinations thereof orother now known or later developed device for implementing a controlprocess appropriate for the actuator 40. The actuator processor 38 is ofa similar processing power and memory capability as the sensor processor32, but it may be larger or smaller. The actuator processor 38implements a control process specific to the actuator 40 in the actuatorarrangement 20. The actuator processor 38 is free of control processesfor other devices, such as remotely spaced devices, sensors or otheractuators. Communications protocols are also implemented by the actuatorprocessor 38 or a separate processor, such as a protocol for measuring areceived signal and transmitting a response. The algorithm may beresponsive to other input signals, such as from a remotely spacedcontroller. Other control processors, such as for different actuatorstructures, may be stored in a memory but unused after configuration ofthe processor 38 for operation with a specific actuator 40.

The actuator 40 is a valve, relay, solenoid, speaker, bell, switch,motor, motor starter, damper, pneumatic device, combinations thereof orother now known or later developed actuating devices for buildingautomation. For example, the actuator 40 is a valve for controlling aflow of fluid or gas in a pipe. As another example, the actuator 40 is arelay or other electrical control for opening and closing doors,actuating lights, or starting/stopping motors. As yet another example,the actuator 40 is a solenoid to open or close a door or damper, such asfor altering air flow.

The lower level wireless network 14 implements local area controlprocesses in a programmable powerful processing control language (PPCL)or other language. For example, control processes for each specific roomor other region within a floor or building are implemented by the lowerlevel wireless network 14. Building components in an area may beautomatically controlled without communication from the high levelwireless network 12. Since the controls are room and/or functionspecific, the communications of the lower level wireless network 14 arespecific to the particular functions. The communications may excludeaggregate communications corresponding to packets for a plurality ofsensors, actuators or combinations thereof. Each communicationcorresponds to individual or groups of sensor arrangements 16, actuatorarrangements 20 or other devices 18.

Building components are controlled in response to sensors and free ofcommunications with the high level wireless network 12. The control isimplemented by distributing a control algorithm in an object orientedapproach or specific to the device using the control algorithm.Rudimentary control algorithms are partitioned into device specificpieces for implementation by the specific devices 16, 18, 20. Forexample, a control algorithm is distributed on both a sensor processor32 and an actuator processor 38 for performing a single or multiplefunctions. The portion of the control algorithm corresponding to aspecific device 16, 18, 20 is then operated or implemented at thespecific device without the need of further control. For example, atemperature within a room is controlled using a temperature sensorarrangement 16 and one or more corresponding actuator arrangements 20.One actuator arrangement 20 may be used for controlling air flow or adamper, and a different actuator arrangement 20 used for controlling aheating or cooling element. The control algorithm for the temperaturefunction with in the room is distributed on the different sensorarrangement 16 and actuator arrangements 20. The portion of the controlalgorithm on the sensor processor 32 is specific to the sensor 30. Forexample, a measured or sensed value is compared with a manuallyprovided, programmed in or network provided set point. The sensorarrangement 18 outputs a result of the comparison, such as informationindicating that the temperature is too high or too low and by how manydegrees. Different types of temperature sensors may output the sameinformation for use by any of various different types of actuators. Thesensor arrangement 16 in this corresponding control algorithm outputsinformation specific to the sensing function without informationindicating an act to be performed. Alternatively, informationcorresponding to an act to be performed may be output, such as anindication of a damper function relative to a heating or cooling elementfunction.

The portion of the control algorithm implemented by the actuatorprocessor 36 receives the temperature information output by thetemperature sensor arrangement 16. The control algorithm is specific tothe actuator, such as determining an adjustment as a function of theneeded or desired temperature change. Different actuators 40 may beassociated with different types or amounts of adjustments to provide agiven temperature change. The portion of the control algorithm specificto the actuator 40 allows determination of the appropriate adjustmentwithout having to program other elements of the network 10 with specificcharacteristics of a given actuator 40.

Where more than two actuators are associated with a same room and samefunction, such as temperature adjustment, the corresponding actuatorarrangements 20 may operate independently of each other. Alternatively,the actuators arrangements 40 have control processes that receive inputsfrom other actuator arrangements for automatically determining networkor distributed adjustments for achieving the desired temperature change.

Other control functions may similarly be implemented by distributedcontrol processes with device specific processing. Any input or sensingfunction within a feedback loop is performed by a sensor arrangement 16,such as determining a difference from a desired set point. If asufficient magnitude of difference exists, the difference of value istransmitted. Alternatively, a command is transmitted for specificoperation by a specific type of device. An actuating device 20 receivesthe difference value and implements a control process to bring thefunction within the desired operating condition. Other functionscontrolled with distributed control processing include fire detection,such as a smoke detector or temperature sensor for actuating an alarm oractuating control of air flow. Temperature, gas or air flow sensors maybe used to actuate air flow, door position, window shade position orother motors or actuators. An occupancy sensor may be used to triggerlighting or other temperature controls. Any other now known or laterdeveloped combination of sensing by one or more senses and performingactions by one or more actuators may be used.

The low level wireless network 14 includes a plurality of actuatorarrangements 20 and sensor arrangements 16. Each of the devices 16, 18and 20 are operable to process control information specific only to thedevice. The sensor arrangements 16 and actuator arrangements 20 are freeof control algorithms for other devices. Within a room or other area,one or multiple functions are implemented by the distributed controlprocesses, such as security, hazard, HVAC or other automated systems.Information from a given sensor arrangement 16 may be used by differentsystems, such as a temperature sensor arrangement 16 being used for bothHVAC as well as hazard or fire systems. The temperature sensorarrangement 16 is operable to output a same type of data for each of thedifferent systems or different types of data. The same actuatorarrangement 20 may be operable in response to different sensorarrangements 16 or different systems, such as a door release or damperactuator being responsive to an HVAC temperature sensor as well as afire system smoke detector.

To implement a control function or process, the distributed controlprocesses are bound together. Sensor arrangements 16 are bound toactuator arrangements 20. For example, a particular sensor arrangement16 is bound to a particular actuator arrangement 20 within a room. Othersensor arrangements 16 and actuators 20 in other rooms, or the same roommay likewise be bound together. Pairs, triplets or other groupings ofvarious devices 16, 18, 20 are bound together. In one embodiment, thebinding is implemented by network address. For example, a sensorarrangement 16 transmits information addressed to a specific actuatorarrangement 20. Alternatively, particular frequency or spread spectrumcoding is used. An actuator device 20 identifies a transmission as beingfrom a specific sensor arrangement 16. In alternative embodiments, bounddevices 16, 18, 20 are operated through time division multiplexing, suchas a specific sensor arrangement 16 transmitting at a same time as aspecific actuator arrangement 20 is operable to receive transmittedinformation. The binding is programmed by network communications, suchas a controller 22 implementing the binding. The bindings are generatedin response to user input after installation of a system. Alternatively,each of the specific devices 16, 18, 20 on the lower level network 14are individually programmed, created, manufactured or otherwise set witha desired binding. In alternative embodiments, the devices 16, 18, 20 onthe lower level network 14 are self-binding, such as identifying aclosest device of a particular type for binding. The binding connectionsmay then be adjusted or altered as needed.

Multiple bindings may be provided for any given device 16, 18, 20 of thelower level network 14. For example, a binding is assigned with aprimary status with a backup binding assigned. Using acknowledgments oftransmissions, a device 16, 18, 20 may recognize when there is a failureof communications, switching to the backup binding. Once sensorarrangement 16 may be bound to two actuator arrangements 20, oneoperating as a primary actuator and the other as a back up actuator.Similarly, an actuator arrangement 20 may be bound to multiple sensorarrangements 16 in a primary and backup configuration. As yet anotherexample, multiple bindings are provided for implementing a givenfunction. The bindings may be arranged in a serial communicationsprocess, such as from one sensor arrangement 16 to a first actuatorarrangement 20 and then to a second actuator arrangement 20.Alternatively, a parallel or combination of parallel and series bindingconnections are provided.

The components of the lower level network 14 are operable to control thevarious functions free of input from separate controllers, such as thecontrollers 22 of the high level network 12. In another mode ofoperation, the control processes are implemented with input from thecontrollers 22. For example, the controllers 22 implement region wide orother modification of local processes. As another example, the devices16, 18, 20 of the lower level network 14 implement local control onlyafter communications failure with the higher level network 12.Alternatively, control by the higher level network 12 is provided onlyas needed or to override any local control. In one mode, a parameter iscontrolled as a function of sensors and actuators without control of thefunction by an external controller 22, but in another mode,communications from an external controller 22 are used to control thefunction and associated devices 16, 18, 20.

The high level wireless network 12 includes controllers 22, managementprocessor or computer 26, and/or other devices 24. Additional, differentor fewer devices 22, 24, 26 may be used. The devices 22, 24 and 26 aredistributed throughout a building for interacting with the lower levelwireless network 14, each other and users of the system 10. For example,FIG. 5 shows various controllers 22 spaced throughout a floor of abuilding for transmitting to and receiving from devices 16, 18, 20 ofthe low level wireless network 14. The devices 22, 24 and 26 of the highlevel wireless network 12 include processors for implementing variouscontrol functions with or without input or outputs points of buildingcontrol.

FIG. 4 shows one embodiment of the controllers 22. The controllers 22include one or more processors 42 and two transceivers 44, 46.Additional, different or fewer devices may be provided, such asproviding a single transceiver operable to transmit and receive pursuantto one or two different communications protocols.

One transceiver 44 is operable for connecting with the lower levelnetwork 14. The transceiver 44 is operable to send and/or receiveinformation to and/or from any of the sensor arrangements 18, actuatorarrangements 20, or other devices 18. Information from various ones ofthe devices 16, 18 and 20 may be received at the same or different timesby the transceiver 44 for aggregate processing and routing by theprocessor 42. The transceiver 44 is also operable to transmitinformation to multiple or specific ones of the devices 16, 18, 20. Forexample, binding associations, control instructions, communicationssettings or other information is transmitted.

Similarly, the transceiver 46 is operable to transmit and receiveinformation to and from other controllers 22, or other devices 24 and 26of the high level wireless network 12. The transceiver 46 is operable totransmit large data packets corresponding to routing of aggregateinformation. Similar data packets may be received for routing or use bythe controller 22.

The processor 42 is an application specific integrated circuit, generalprocessor, digital signal processor, control processor, fieldprogrammable gate array, analog circuit, digital circuit, combinationsthereof or other now known or later developed device for monitoring,controlling and/or routing. In one embodiment, the processor 42 is afull function device pursuant to the 802.15.4 standard implanting aprogrammable power process language application. The processor 42 has agreater processing power and storage capacity than processors of thedevices 16, 18 and 20 of the lower level network. For example, theprocessor 42 is a 16, 32 or 64 bit processor. In alternativeembodiments, the processor 42 is of a same or smaller size than one ormore of the devices 16, 18, of the lower level wireless network 14.While individual packets of data from the lower level wireless network14 may be routed or processed by the processor 42, the processor 42 isalso operable to route or perform aggregate processing on multiplepackets or a packet from multiple data sources.

The processor 42 routes data from the devices 16, 18, 20 of the lowerlevel network 14 to devices 22, 24 or 26 of the higher level network.For example, raw data is routed for use by monitoring, reporting orregion-specific control by other controllers 22. As shown in FIG. 5, thecontrollers 22 and other components of the high level wireless network12 may have a greater spacing than components of the low level network14. More than one controller 22 may be positioned to receive data from asame device 16, 18, 20 of the lower level wireless network 14. Thedevices 22, 24 and/or 26 are located in mechanical rooms or buildinginfrastructure outside of occupied spaces, but may be located elsewherein the building. The communications capability of the high levelwireless network 12 is configured or provided for longer distancetransmissions than on the lower level wireless network 14. Inalternative embodiments, the controller 22 causes data to be routed overthe lower level wireless network 14.

The management computer 26 coordinates activities of the variouscontrollers 22. The management computer 26 is a personal computer,application-specific processor, workstation, panel or other device forreceiving user input or programming for control of the system 10.

The other devices 24 may be inputs, such as from a utility, or outputs,such as printers or display monitors. In one embodiment, one or more ofthe other devices 24 is a high bandwidth sensor or actuator arrangement.For example, the other device 24 is a video camera or a video monitor.The increased bandwidth of the high level wireless network 22 is used toprovide the high bandwidth video data. Both levels of the network 12, 14are then used for interacting between the sensor or actuator device inother sensors and actuator arrangements 16, 20 of the lower levelwireless network 14. For example, a video camera is turned on or movedto image in response to actuation by an actuator arrangement 20 orsensing by a sensor arrangement 16. For security use, the sensing of anopening or closing door may activate the other device 24 throughcommunications through multiple levels of the network 10. As anotherexample, actuation of a door release or sensing of a fire may also causeactivation of the video camera.

The controllers 22 are operable to override operation of the boundactuator arrangements 20 and sensor arrangements 16. Individualcontrollers 22 or networks of the controllers 22 implement controlprocesses for a plurality of local areas, such as a plurality of rooms.The control processes may be implemented for a wing of the building, afloor of the building, an entire building, other areas or combinationsthereof. The areas are larger than the local areas addressed by specificbindings of devices 16, 18, 20 of the lower level wireless network 14.Alternatively, the areas are the same size or smaller. By implementingcontrol processes for a plurality of local areas, the controller 22 isoperable to receive or transmit aggregate communications correspondingto a plurality of sensors, actuators or both. The aggregatecommunications are provided in a single data package structure ascompiled by the same or another controller 22. Alternatively, raw datais received from other controllers 22 acting as routers.

In overriding local control, the higher level wireless network 12 andcontrollers 22 are operable to instruct redirection of data, such assensor data from the sensor arrangement 16 to the higher level wirelessnetwork 12. Alternatively, transmissions from sensor arrangement 16 aremonitored by the controllers 22 without redirection or changingbindings. As another alternative, the sensor and/or actuatorarrangements 16, 20 request control input from one or more controllers22. For example, an actuator arrangement 20 receives one or moretransmissions from a sensor arrangement 16. The actuator arrangement 20forwards the transmitted information alone or in aggregate to acontroller 22. The controller 22 outputs control instructions for theactuator arrangement 20 or another device or uses the transmittedinformation without further control output. The actuator arrangement 20either performs the actuator specific control process without input fromthe controller 22, later receives control input from the controller 22for later operation or waits until control input from the controller 22is received.

The controllers 22 may output instructions or information for theactuator or sensor arrangements 20, 16 to control the processes forbuilding components. By dynamically assigning control processing amongthe various components of the high level wireless network 12 and the lowlevel wireless network 14, dynamic control processing is providedamongst any combinations of devices. The control processing isdistributed across components 16, 18, 20 of the low level network 14 aswell as between the devices 22, 24, 26 of the high level wirelessnetwork 12.

By distributing control processing for a region with the controllers 22,region wide control processes may be used to influence, override oralter the local control processing implemented as discussed above by thelow level wireless network 14. For example, one or more controllers 22,other devices 24 or management computer 26 provide control processes forpeak demand limiting. Peak demand limiting is used to control an overallpower usage by a building, such as controlling power used by chillers,boilers, air handlers, lighting, or other building components. Forexample, in response to a required or requested limitation on powerdemands, a controller 22 or other device 24, 26 may instruct one or moresensor arrangements 16 to adjust a set point for temperaturemaintenance. Alternatively or additionally, an actuator device 20 or oneof the other devices 24 of the higher level network 12 are operated tocontrol a system, such as by shutting down or limiting operation of oneof multiple cooling or heating plants. Another example of regionalcontrol is for variable volume and pressure control. Overall operationof a fan is based on room pressures sensed in multiple rooms. An exampleof regional processing are reporting for a wing, floor, building orother region. Another example for overall or aggregate controlprocessing is providing an overall control, such controlling differentzones in response to security or hazard situations. Any use of data frommultiple sensors and/or actuators, such as data from multiple rooms orother aggregates of data outside of or different than the bindingsestablished for the lower level wireless network 14, are performed byone or more controllers 22. By causing control processes for sensorarrangements 16 or actuator arrangements 20 to alter or performdifferently, the controllers 22 and the associated control processes ofthe high level wireless network 12 are used to operate, override orinfluence local control processes.

Processing redundancy is provided by having multiple controllers 22.Where one controller 22 fails or communications with the controller 22fails, the control processing implemented by the failed controller 22may be transferred to a different controller 22. Processing mayalternatively be transferred for load balancing, resource balancing orscheduled maintenance. The new address associated with the transfer to adifferent controller 22 is communicated to the network components inneed of the information, such as transferring the address to othercontrollers 22 for routing, or sensor or actuator arrangements 16, 20for addressing data intended for a specific location.

The control process implemented by the high level wireless network 12may be hierarchal, such as having the management processor 26 or one ormore of the controllers 22 implement control processes for controllingthe various controllers 22. Data and processing may be redirected to theappropriate controller 22 or management computer 26 for implementing aneven higher level control process. For example, more complex or moreintegrated building processes are performed on higher performance units.As another example, results from different control processes are inputto yet another control process. Similarly, the controllers 22 mayinstruct the sensor arrangement 16 or actuator arrangement 20 to provideoutputs different than used for the functional control of a buildingautomation. For example, the sensor arrangement 16 is instructed tooutput a sensed temperature rather than the need for and magnitude of atemperature change.

The controllers 22 are operable to assign bindings and/or reassignbindings. Dynamic binding between any of the sensor arrangements 16,actuator arrangements 20 or other devices 18 with one or morecontrollers 22 is dynamically controlled. A binding is created as neededfor implementing a particular control function or process. Otherbindings may subsequently be created between different devices or withdifferent controllers 22 as needed, such as for implementing differentcontrol functions. The regional or other integrated or aggregate controlis provided in one embodiment by causing a sensor arrangement 16 totransmit to a controller 22, and the controller 22 or a differentcontroller 22 to then provide information to an actuator arrangement 20.For example, a paired binding is disrupted to provide differentcombinations of devices to operate with each other. The controller 22may include information from other sources, such as adjusting a roomtemperature as a function of the temperatures of adjacent rooms. Thecontroller 22 implements processes for a region, to provide an averagetemperature within a wing, floor or other region. The controller 22 mayoverride local functions or alter bindings. Similarly, a controller 22may be assigned to specific devices 16, 18, 20 of the lower levelwireless network 14. A backup controller 22 may also be assigned for useduring a communications failure. Alternatively or additionally, thedevices 16, 18, 20 of the lower level wireless network 14 are providedwith a default binding for local control without communications from anycontrollers 22. Upon a communications failure with the controllers 22,the local or default bindings are implemented to provide a rudimentaryor fail-safe control.

FIG. 6 shows one embodiment of a method for wireless building automationcontrol. The method is implemented using the system 10 described abovefor FIG. 1 or different systems. Additional, different or fewer acts maybe provided, such as providing addition local processes 50, additionalregion processing 62 or different transmit and receive schemes.

In act 50, one or more local functions are implemented. Building outputsare wirelessly controlled in response to sensor inputs without anintervening controller. Controllers associated with the sensors andactuators perform the automation without a separate controller formanaging or providing control instructions for the building automationor environment function. In the local process of act 50, room level orother local area level processes are implemented. One or a plurality ofdifferent functions for controlling a building environment or providingother automated responses within a building are provided within thelocal process. The local process may be programmed or established inresponse to control instructions, but is operable subsequently withoutfurther control instructions from a separate or intervening controller.Different or the same local processes are provided for different areas,such as for different rooms. The same or different control algorithmsmay be used for each of the different local areas. Within a building,one, two or many more different local area processes may be performed.

In act 52, a sensor control process is performed on a sensor. The sensorcontrol process is specific to the sensor and avoids implementingcontrol processes for other sensors or actuators. The control processprocesses sensed or measured information based on the type of sensor andoutputs data appropriate for the type of sensor with units andinformation common to any of various specific sensors of a same type.For example, a mercury-based temperature sensor converts the sensedmercury position or level into an indication of a specific temperatureor an indication of an amount of difference in temperature from a setpoint. A micro-electromechanical temperature sensor, such as a bi-metalbeam with electrical conductivity sensing, converts a current, voltageor capacitance into a temperature value. Mercury andmicro-electromechanical measurements may have different values, but theresulting compared or determined output is the same for each of the twodifferent sensors due to the control process. The common units or outputallows for the switching of different sensor structures to operate withthe same actuators. During maintenance or replacement of sensors,replacement of the actuators is avoided since the actuators are operablewith the common output.

In act 54, the output from the sensor is wirelessly transmitted. Theoutput from the sensor is responsive to the control process of thesensor as well as the transmit format, transmit power, binding or othercommunication characteristic. Using an interference control mechanismand desired transmit power, the output is provided to a desiredcomponent or plurality of components. For example, one or more actuatorsreceives the output data. One or more controllers may also receive thetransmission for monitoring the local process.

In act 56, the output is received at an actuator for local controlwithout an intervening controller. Based on address assignment or otherinformation indicating a binding, the actuator receives the data from aparticular sensor and may discard signals from other sensors. Thewireless communications performed in acts 54 and 56 are performedpursuant to a communications protocol. In one embodiment, wirelesscommunications are performed directly between actuator outputs andsensor inputs. The communication is free of routing by a controller orother structure. In alternative embodiments, one or more sensors,actuators, controllers or other structure routes data without or withalteration between a sensor and actuator. The communications provide adesired bandwidth, such as a bandwidth minimized to save power butmaximized to provide the needed standardized communication. Thecommunications allow for wirelessly paired or otherwise grouped buildingactuators and sensors to be operable without further control.

In act 58, the actuator control process is performed on the actuator asa function of the output from the sensor. The standardized sensor outputis converted to information for the specific structure of the actuatorbeing used. For a given type of actuator, more than one structure may beavailable. The control process alters the standardized output into asetting or adjustment signal specific to the actuator. The controlprocess of the actuator is specific to the actuator without includingcontrol processes for other sensors or other actuators. The actuatorcontrol process is performed for only controlling the given actuator. Inalternative embodiments, control processes for other sensors oractuators are included on the actuator. In addition to the actuatorcontrol process, communications processes are implemented on theactuator for receiving information and/or communicating statusinformation. For example, every time the actuator makes an adjustment,an indication of the adjustment is output for monitoring by a controlleror for use by other actuators or sensors. The output is in a standard orcommon format for the type of actuator. Alternatively or additionally,information specific to the actuator structure used is output.

The control processes for the sensor and actuator implemented in acts 52and 58 are performed without control in real time from an externalcontroller. An external controller may have previously programmed a setpoint or other function of either the sensor or actuator, but the sensorand actuator are operable to function free of further control. A defaultmay be provided for performing building automation function free of anyor initial control.

In one mode, the local process 50 is operated free of control fromanother controller or another wireless network. Acts 60, 62 and 64represent processes in a different mode where the sensor and actuatoroperate as a function of control from a controller or other wirelessnetwork. The controller or other wireless network is used to implementnew control, regional control, override control, or other alterations incontrol.

In act 60, information from one or more local processes or signalprocessors are received. For example, a transmission of a sensorintended for a specific actuator is monitored at a different location.Act 60 also represents receiving information pursuant to a differentcommunications protocol, such as receiving information from a managementcomputer or other controllers. Aggregate data corresponding to aplurality of sensors, actuators or combinations thereof is communicatedpursuant to the different communications protocol. A larger bandwidth isused for providing the aggregate information. The information isaggregated within a single packet structure or format or is provided asseparate packets from a plurality of information sources. Differentcontrollers may implement different control functions and communicatepursuant to the second communications protocol.

In act 64, information is transmitted to a local process. Informationresponsive to an intervening controller with zero, one or more othercommunications pursuant to a different protocol is used to generatecontrol instructions. The control instructions are then provided to theactuator process 58, to the sensor process 52 or other process of thelocal processing in act 50. The output of the building actuators thenrespond to the wireless communication from the sensors in act 52 and/orinformation from the communications on a different network or pursuantto a different communications protocol.

In act 62, a regional or other process is implemented. The processallows wireless control of building actuator outputs with an interveningcontroller in response to sensor inputs. For example, a regional controlprocess for a plurality of local areas is performed. Where needed, aroom control or other local control process is overridden with thecontrol process for a wing of the building, a floor of the building, thebuilding, a plurality of local areas or combinations thereof. Byoverriding the operation of paired or other grouped building actuatorsand sensors, the controller intervenes in the local process. In othermodes of operation, the controller merely monitors or originallyestablishes the local process without any intervening control in abuilding automation function.

In addition to controlling building automation functions, a regionalprocess or other controller may alter the bindings or othercommunication properties. For example, data from sensor inputs areredirected to an intervening controller by establishing a bindingbetween the controller and the sensor. The binding between the sensorand the actuator is also redirected so that the actuator receives datafrom the intervening controller or another controller and not thesensor. For example, redirection is performed in response to acommunication failure. As another example, redirection is provided fordynamically implementing different control processes at different times.The control processing is dynamically assigned among a plurality ofdifferent components, such as components including an interveningcontroller or components without an intervening controller. As differentregional control processes operate to affect a given function, differentintervening controllers or dynamic assignments may be performed. Where acommunications failure with one or more intervening controllers occurs,a different intervening controller may be bound to a given actuator orsensor. Alternatively, the actuator and sensor default to operationtogether without an intervening controller. Other controllers monitoringnetwork traffic or bindings may note a communications failure. Thecommunications failure is provided to a monitoring or reportingalgorithm. The components associated with a failure may be identifiedand replaced with minimum efforts.

FIG. 5 shows one example of a distribution of components for buildingautomation within a building, floor or region. Different schemes may beused to avoid interference for communications from any of the variouscomponents. In one embodiment, transmit power for the sensorarrangements 16, actuator arrangements 20 or other devices 18 of thelower level wireless network 14 shown in FIG. 1 is minimized to avoidinterference.

The transmit power is set as a function of other building system controldevices, such as two or more other building system control devices. Thetransmit power of one of the components is responsive to communicationsfrom the controllers 22 or other devices 24 of the high level wirelessnetwork 12. For example, a sensor arrangement 16 has a variable transmitpower that is controlled in response to communications from one or morecontrollers 22. Alternatively or additionally, the transmit power of oneof the components or devices 16, 18, 20 is set in response toinformation from other devices 16, 18, 20 on the same lower levelwireless network. Devices 16, 18, 20 from a lower level wireless network14 or devices 22, 24 or 26 from the higher level wireless network 12 maybe used. For example, one or more of the receiver devices is an actuatorarrangement 20. The signals or lack of signals at the two or morereceivers is communicated to a control process.

The control process is located at one of the receivers, such as at acontroller or at an actuator. Alternatively, the control process islocated at the device transmitting to establish a transmit power. In yetanother embodiment, the control process is a separate controller ordevice than either of the transmitter or receivers. A distributedcontrol process may be used as well. The control process determines thetransmit power of the transmitter as a function of information from twoor more receivers. The control processor is operable to set a transmitpower to avoid interference. For example, the transmit power is set toprovide consistent or reliable reception at one device while minimizingthe signal provided to another device, such as device spaced furtheraway or on another side of a wall. By avoiding reception at the otherdevice, less interference with signals meant for the other device mayoccur.

The control process may limit the transmit power for reception by aclosest controller and minimize reception by other controllers. Forredundant communications, the transmit power may be increased or reducedfor reception by multiple devices. For example, an actuator and back upactuator are both operable to receive transmitted signals. As anotherexample, a controller and a back up controller are operable to receivetransmitted signals while minimizing the reception of signals at yetanother or further spaced away controller or actuators.

FIG. 7 shows one method for determining a transmit power. The acts ofFIG. 7 are implemented using the system and components of FIG. 1 or adifferent system or components. Additional, different or fewer acts maybe provided, such as attempting to receive at third, fourth or othernumbers of receivers. The transmit power of at least one sensor input,sensor arrangement or other component is set as a function of signalsreceived or attempted to be received at a plurality of other devices.

In act 70, a radio frequency signal is transmitted from a buildingcontrol system device. The signal is transmitted with a default transmitpower, such as a maximum or minimum transmit power. A sensorarrangement, actuator arrangement, controller, combinations thereof orother device transmits the radio frequency signal.

In acts 72 and 74, the receipt of the frequency signal is attempted attwo or more different building control system devices, such asassociated with two different locations. For example, a sensorarrangement, actuator arrangement, controller, combinations thereof orother devices are used for receiving or attempting receipt of the radiofrequency signal. The receive signal is measured, such as measuring anamplitude or signal-to-noise ratio of the receive signal strength. Themeasured information is then communicated to a control process forsetting the transmit power.

In act 76, the transmit power of the transmitter is determined as afunction of the information from the other building control systemdevices. Using a one calculation or an iterative approach, the transmitpower is set in response to a single transmission or a plurality oftransmissions, respectively. The measured signal strength is used toincrease or decrease the transmit power to avoid interference and/orincrease communications redundancy. By limiting the transmit power,transmissions with reliable communications may be received at one devicebut not received or received with lesser signal strength at anotherdevice, avoiding or limiting interference at the other device. Thedesired reception may be for any of likely bound devices, such as acontroller and back up controller, an actuator and a back up actuator,and a sensor and back up sensor. By setting the transmit power toprovide reliable signal strength at any of various or likely boundcomponents, redundant communications may be provided. By limiting thesignal strength, other nodes or bound groupings may operate using a samesignal format, frequency or time slot. Parallel communications outsideof a transmitter's sphere of influence may allow for higher networkthroughput. Any level of reliability for reception may be used, such as90 percent, 95 percent or 100 percent. Less reliable settings may beused such as where an acknowledgment signal may be provided forrequesting retransmission until accurate information is received.

The controllers 22 or other devices of an upper level wireless network12 are also configured for limited transmission range. Alternatively,the devices are configured for maximum transmission range. The sametransmit power process or different transmit power processes may beused. In one embodiment, the transmit power of each controller is set toprovide for reliable reception of transmitted information at least twoother controllers 22 on a same floor or on different floors.

Distributed control processing on the local level as well as between thelocal and regional areas may allow for more immediate response toproblems and/or provide for different responses in different locations.Controllers or other devices of the upper level wireless network 12instruct control of building components in different areas in differentways. In response to control of building components in a local area,such as by a sensor arrangement 16 and actuator arrangement 20 withoutinterference by other controllers, the controller 22 may cause anactuator 20 in a different area to perform a function. For example, theadjustment of a damper or air flow in one room without interference froma controller may be monitored and used to control the air flow in anadjacent room to counteract pressure differential or to derive moreconsistent temperature adjustments. The monitoring controller or othercontroller interferes in the local control process of the other room toprovide the adjustment.

A problem may be identified locally and dealt with locally. For example,a sensor senses a fire or smoke. This alarm triggers an immediate threatsignal. Actuators corresponding to a valve for releasing water, a doorrelease for closing a fire door, a damper for altering air flow or otheractuators may respond without interference from a controller to thesensed fire. The output devices or actuators within the room areoperated without authorization from a controller located outside of theroom. The alarm signal may be monitored by a controller and propagatedto other controllers or other actuators. For example, a controllerreceives the alarm signal and causes an alarm to sound in a differentarea in the same or different way. A less threatening alarm is soundedin a remote area to indicate that a concern may exist in the buildingbut that the concern is not of immediate threat to the area. Thepropagated signal may alternatively or additionally be used foradjusting other actuators, such as fire door and air flow in adjacent orremote areas as a function of the spatial relationship to the areaassociated with the generated alarm or problem. As an alternative to afire problem, a security problem may be identified. The immediateresponse within a local area may be the locking of doors, triggering ofa security camera, moving of a security camera or activation of an audiosystem. The propagated signal from the local area is used to triggeractuators in other locations, such as switching a security guard monitorto view information from a location where the alarm signal wasgenerated.

Transmitted fire, security or other signals from a sensor within a roomof a building is received directly from the sensor at an actuatorassociated with the room. The alarm signal is received free of routingthrough a controller remote to the sensor and the actuator for moreimmediate response. Alternatively, routing within the room or evenexternally to the room may occur.

While the invention has been described above by reference to variousembodiments, it should be understood that many changes and modificationscan be made without departing from the scope of the invention. It istherefore intended that the foregoing detailed description be regardedas illustrative rather than limiting, and that it be understood that itis the following claims, including all equivalents, that are intended todefine the spirit and scope of this invention.

1-49. (canceled)
 50. A method for wireless building automation control,the method comprising: (a) wirelessly transmitting from a sensor withina room of a building an alarm signal; (b) receiving the alarm signaldirectly from the sensor at an actuator associated with the room; (c)operating the actuator in response to the alarm signal; (d) wirelesslypropagating the alarm signal outside the room and within the building;and (e) responding to the alarm signal differently in another room. 51.The method of claim 50 wherein (a) comprises transmitting a fire alarmsignal.
 52. The method of claim 50 wherein (a) comprises transmitting asecurity signal.
 53. The method of claim 50 wherein (b) comprisesreceiving the alarm signal free of routing through a controller remotefrom the sensor and the actuator.
 54. The method of claim 50 wherein (c)comprises triggering an alarm.
 55. The method of claim 50 wherein (c)comprises altering air flow.
 56. The method of claim 50 wherein (c)comprises operating a door mechanism.
 57. The method of claim 50 wherein(d) comprises routing the alarm signal from the room to the other room,and wherein (e) comprises operating another actuator in the other roomin response to the alarm signal.
 58. The method of claim 50 wherein (a),(b) and (c) comprise responding to a problem directly between input andoutput devices within the room without authorization from a controllerlocated outside the room and wherein (d) and (e) comprise propagatingthe alarm signal to other rooms for an appropriate response as afunction of the spatial relationship of the other rooms to the room.59-64. (canceled)